They say that little boys always used to carry a piece of string in their pockets, for just in case. I suppose it's not much different to carry a rope with you wherever you go ....You never know when it'll come in handy.Much as I love these books about the author's life on Bruach, I'm rather glad I don't live in an environment where I carry a rope with me at all times. That's part of the pleasure of books - we can enjoy others' lives from the comfort of our own homes (or on the train, or .. etc.). Lillian Beckwith writes so beautifully. I continue to be thoroughly entertained by these.